Incredible facts about sharks, predators of the ocean

CaptionFacts about shark attacks

David Fleetham / Discovery Channel

Though being attacked by a shark like this great white is extremely unlikely, the number of unprovoked shark attacks worldwide has grown at a steady pace since 1900. According to the Florida Museum of Natural History, there were 39 reported shark attacks in California from 2001 to 2013.

Though being attacked by a shark like this great white is extremely unlikely, the number of unprovoked shark attacks worldwide has grown at a steady pace since 1900. According to the Florida Museum of Natural History, there were 39 reported shark attacks in California from 2001 to 2013. (David Fleetham / Discovery Channel)

When sharks do attack humans, the encounter is often a mistake. Researchers at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration say an agitated or frightened shark could attack in self defense, or a curious shark might bite a swimmer or surfer thinking he or she is a seal.

When sharks do attack humans, the encounter is often a mistake. Researchers at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration say an agitated or frightened shark could attack in self defense, or a curious shark might bite a swimmer or surfer thinking he or she is a seal. (Cousteau Society / Getty Images)